Use code EARLYBIRD21 when enrolling in a LIVE or Problem-Based course today and save big!
Get $250 off any LIVE course, and $300 off any Problem-Based course. Hurry—this offer ends March 9th.
Open to: Grades 6-8
Eligibility: CTY-level or Advanced CTY-level math score required
Prerequisites: A strong grasp of the English language is recommended.
Course Format: Individually Paced
Course Length: Typically 3 months
Course Code: IPM
Description
This course introduces students to the exciting world of programming using the Python language. Students will gain a basic understanding of object-oriented programming and enhance their critical thinking and problem-solving skills as they learn to design, code, and debug Python programs. Challenging assignments encourage them to master important programming concepts such as variables, operators, and control flow constructs. Students will use their creativity and imagination to draw different shapes on the computer screen and work with Turtle Graphics. They will also discover how to use functions to reuse code and how to read and write to files. While no prior programming experience is required, some exposure to programming languages may help students succeed in this highly challenging course. Parental support may be needed. By the end of the course, students will be able to apply the basic programming principles they mastered to learn other programming languages.
This course does not have any synchronous class meetings, but students may schedule one-on-one virtual meetings directly with the instructor to answer questions or concerns.
Students may be invited to interact in CTY community spaces that include students and instructors and potentially specially invited guests that are not enrolled in their course. Student contributions (e.g., projects, forum posts, etc.) may remain in the course after the student completes the course. These artifacts may be preserved to showcase student work or to continue important conversations.
Students will need to download the latest version of Python for free.
The required course textbook is:
Python for Kids: A Playful Introduction To Programming, by Jason R. Briggs. ISBN 78-1593274078
References and supplementary readings will be provided, where required, on the course website.
This course requires a properly maintained computer with high-speed internet access and an up-to-date web browser (such as Chrome or Firefox). The student must be able to communicate with the instructor via email. Visit the Technical Requirements and Support page for more details.
Zoom online virtual classroom
This course uses an online virtual classroom which can be used for instructor-student communication if the student has any questions about the course or curriculum. The classroom works on standard computers with the Zoom desktop client and also tablets or handhelds that support the Zoom Mobile app. Students will need a computer with the Zoom desktop client installed to watch any recorded meetings. The Zoom desktop client and Zoom Mobile App are both available for free download.
Most course lectures may be viewed on mobile devices, but in some cases assignments and quizzes must be completed on a desktop or laptop computer.
Chromebooks are not recommended due to required downloading of specialized software.
This course uses Respondus LockDown Browser proctoring software for designated assessments. LockDown Browser is a client application that is installed to a local computer. Visit the Respondus website for system requirements.
While Chromebook can be used to progress through the course, all exams must be completed on a PC or Mac.